Core Themes: Achievement (Academic)

"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." - Albert Einstein

Early Years: A traditional curriculum centres in the early years upon the core skills of reading, writing and arithmetic, as well as learning through play. Themes are explored through project work, and literacy and numeracy carefully developed. Additional languages are gradually introduced from the early stage, and pupils' ICT skills and confidence are developed.

Junior Section: Subjects are taught separately, with all core subjects being taught by specialists in those fields. The Juniors have their own ICT suite and dedicated Science laboratory. The Junior library is a centre for developing essential habits of reading. The section enjoys a strong and cohesive identity, preparing pupils for entry to the Senior Section of the school.

The Senior Section curriculum is solidly academic: the sciences are taught separately and by specialists, the classics are taught alongside a wide range of languages. Mathematics and English (including literature) are central up to GCSE. Other subjects include Art, along with Religious Education, History and Geography. PE is available as an examined subject for those who wish to pursue the study of sports science; DT and ICT for those who wish to develop their understanding of technologies. Music and Drama are taught throughout and supported by regular performances.

At all stages, academic achievement is supported by a strong Learning Support team and parents are kept informed of progress through regular school reports. Homework is set at all levels and carefully monitored, so pupils develop good habits of self-directed study.  Examination results, at both junior and senior levels, are consistently impressive by both regional and national standards. The school is regularly one of the top achieving schools in Wales for examinations and it appears high on UK-wide rankings. However, sometimes the least noticed achievements may be the most significant. What matters in the classroom is everyone working hard in ways they can be proud of.